The Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia in charge of European Affairs Fatmir Besimi, PhD today met the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Italy Mr. Benedetto della Vedova.

It has been pointed out that the enlargement policy is one of the highest priorities of the Republic of Italy and that it will seriously engage in supporting the countries of Western Balkans for as prompter membership in the EU as possible.

He has added that Italy would support our country in its efforts to overcome the outstanding issues and in the commitments of the Government to initiate the negotiations for EU membership.

Besimi has shown appreciation to their willingness for support during their EU Presidency regarding the integration of the Western Balkans in the EU, and has added that the European Union has been the major strategic priority for the Republic of Macedonia and that our country has been strongly committed to implementing the reforms and meeting the criteria for membership in the Union.

The two participants have also discussed the possibilities for deepening the bilateral relations between the two countries, on the economic and cultural plan, by intensifying the economic cooperation and through the exchange of cultural practices of both countries. Furthermore, it has been noted that the cooperation could continue, also in terms of capacity building of the Macedonian administration in the area of rule of law, public procurement, agriculture and rural development, energy, public health, financial control etc.

The Deputy Prime Minister Besimi, at the end of the meeting, once again, has wished to them a successful Presidency with the Union and successful meeting of the objectives.